Lids (Indianapolis) is launching a new concept called Lids University (a.k.a Lids U), according to a company press release. Dedicated to collegiate sports apparel, products and accessories, the new stores will open in key college markets throughout the U.S.
Though the focus will be on collegiate products, the stores will also offer other licensed and branded merchandise, and carry apparel brands like Fanatics, Champion, Under Amour and Nike, among others. The stores will also feature a service available in full-line Lids stores called “Custom Zones,” which allow shoppers to custom-embroider products in store.
The first location opened at Gurnee Mills shopping mall in Gurnee, Ill., July 22. Another location at Mall of Georgia in Buford, Ga., and one other at San Marcos Premium Outlets in San Marcos, Texas, also opened July 22.
Currently the company plans to open more than 11 Lids U stores throughout the rest of the year with more to follow in 2023.
Co-Founder and Partner at Ames Watson, Lids’ parent company, and Chair of FanzzLids Holdings, Lawrence Berger, says, “This is an exciting moment for Lids as we officially open a new store concept dedicated to collegiate sports fans across the country … We understand that our customers wanted to see more collegiate products in our stores, and we’re proud to now offer a space for consumers to shop the latest looks from their favorite collegiate teams.”